KB Sports Media | Paris – June 1, 2025
The stars of tennis’ next generation lit up Court Philippe-Chatrier in a Round of 16 showdown that lived up to the hype. Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz, the defending French Open champion, powered past American Ben Shelton in four sets — 7-6(8), 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 — in a match that was as electric as the scoreline suggests.
Both 22 years old and ranked inside the top 15, Alcaraz and Shelton brought serious firepower and swagger to the clay. Alcaraz, already a two-time Grand Slam winner and one of the most complete players on tour, was tested by Shelton’s fearless style and thunderous serve. But in the end, it was the Spaniard’s grit and shotmaking that pulled him through.
The opening set was a thriller. Shelton matched Alcaraz blow for blow, blasting 140-mph serves and charging the net with confidence. The tiebreak was a gut check for both players — Alcaraz saved two set points before sealing it 10-8 with a blazing forehand winner that sent the crowd into a frenzy.
From there, the world No. 2 found his rhythm. He dialed in on return games and used his quick feet to turn defense into offense. Alcaraz broke Shelton in the middle of the second set and never looked back, closing it out 6-3 with a highlight-reel drop shot.
But Shelton wasn’t done. The American broke early in the third set and rode that momentum to take it 6-4 — showing not just raw talent, but composure under pressure. His willingness to take risks and step inside the baseline kept Alcaraz off balance.
Still, champions find a way. Alcaraz responded immediately in the fourth set, breaking for a 2-1 lead and holding serve the rest of the way. On match point, he painted the line with a signature down-the-line forehand and let out a roar as he advanced to the quarterfinals for the fourth straight year.
“This was a really tough match,” Alcaraz said. “Ben pushed me to play my best. He’s an incredible athlete and has a great future. I’m proud of how I stayed focused and played with intensity until the end.”
For Shelton, this was his best French Open run to date. He exits Roland Garros with his head high — proving he’s not just a rising star, but a real threat on any surface.
Next up for Alcaraz: fellow American Tommy Paul, who’s also playing the best tennis of his career. With his confidence growing and his game sharpening, Alcaraz remains the man to beat in Paris.
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